The night sky glowed bright with the first firework that burst in the air. Colors of red, purple, and gold blossomed against the black sky, greeted by small cheers from the villagers. The streets were alive with hanging lanterns, street vendors busy selling cotton candy and grilled mushrooms, while children ran around carrying star-shaped paper lanterns.
From a quieter alley corner, two figures in black cloaks with hoods covering their heads walked side by side. Beneath the shadow of his hood, Mathien held Hana's hand—firmly, calmly, as if he didn't care who might see.
Hana walked slowly beside him, her eyes sparkling at everything she had never seen before in her life. The lantern light reflected in her eyes, her face full of smiles… all too striking in Mathien's gaze. The girl seemed to shine, as though she were part of the festival lights themselves.
Mathien glanced at her in secret.
And his eyes couldn't look away.
